Practical Information

Last Updated on Wednesday, 13 February 2013 22:17

Some practical information to help with your trip planning:

Language

The main language is I-Kiribati - however English has been taught over many years is widely understood ; you will have no problem accessing services, getting by or just having a chat. See our language & culture page if you would like to learn some I-Kiribati words before arriving.

Climate & Temperature

Temperature varies between 25° and 33°C, and we have annual sunshine of 4135 hours. The wet season extends from December to May and rainfall variation is high in most of the islands. A gentle breeze from the easterly quarter is predominant, and a sea breeze cools everyone down all year round. The tropical climate and hot temperature encourage cool, cotton, loosely outfits for men and women.

Electricity

The electrical current in Kiribati is 240 volts, AC 50 Hz. Three pin power outlets are commonly used in Kiribati (the same as Australia).

Currency, Exchange and Money

Kiribati uses the Australian dollar (AUD).

The ANZ Bank (Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd) is the only International banking company in Kiribati with operating branches on South Tarawa and Kiritimati Island.

On South Tarawa, ATMs are accessible at Betio, Bairiki, Bikenibeu ANZ Bank branches and at the gate of Tungaru Central Hospital in Nawerewere

On Kiritimati Island you can access the ATM at Ronton

An amount of $5000 cash is permitted to be carried by a visitor when traveling to Kiribati. Major foreign currencies and travelers cheques can be exchanged at the ANZ Bank. Coins: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 & $2. Notes: $5, $10, $20, $50 & $100.

Credit Cards: VISA & Master Cards are currently the only major credit cards accepted in Kiribati but there is limited acceptance where there are no credit card facilities. You will not be able to use credit cards on outer islands.

Western Union Money Transfer Agency has an international branch located in Betio, Bairiki, Abarao and Nawerewere on South Tarawa thus providing you the quickest way to send and receive money.

For more information contact:Tel: (+686) 29539Fax: Email:
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